Amongst the 39,000 runners of the 36th London Marathon on Sunday 24 April were several from Chorleywood. We asked four why they took part in the race and how they got on
Lucie Borkett Jones (main pic)
Motivation:
I always like a challenge, and it’s been on my bucket list for a while.
Chosen charity:
Peace Hospice Care because of the amazing care they gave my mother in the last weeks of her life (it was 18 months since she died on the day of the race).
Time: 4hr 30
Highs and Lows
I wasn’t feeling great so the last six miles were a blur! Running over Tower Bridge definitely lived up to the hype.
The experience:
It was exhausting, but I’m so glad I’ve done it. I’m planning to train for a triathlon next, but hope to run a Marathon again and improve my time.
Laura Fitchett
Motivation
As a teacher I encourage pupils to be resilient and overcome barriers to their learning. This was a great chance to show that succeeding at any challenge is possible
Chosen charity
Dyslexia Action. They provide a lot of support and guidance for students with learning difficulties.
Time
6:09
Highs and Lows
The race was such an amazing experience with the positive crowd! Lows include the Hillingdon Half marathon training race. I really struggled to complete it and began to realise this was going to be a difficult feat.
The experience
Training was gruelling during the winter but race day was incredible. Can’t wait to do it all over again!
David Short
Motivation
16,000 children die every day say the WHO – most from easily preventable malnutrition.
Chosen charity
The Christian developmental charity Rope – which works with destitute communities. I ran for a mother and child project in Ethiopia
Time
4 hours 15mins – First time marathon runner.
Highs and Lows
High – Finishing the race in one piece!
Low – Pre-marathon I was hit by injuries so missed most of my long runs and put a question mark over my ability to run.
The experience
A privilege and joy to have run for such a great cause (though at mile 24 it didn’t feel too joyful!)
Jon Sleeper
Motivation
As a business and performance coach I’m motivated to push the limits of what I can achieve in my own life.
Chosen charity
Outward Bound Trust, Outdoor Learning charity for children from disadvantaged backgrounds.
Time
04:02:52
Highs and lows
It was brilliant running around the Cutty Sark and crossing Tower Bridge I could sense the build up. It was tough at Canary Wharf – you’re running in the wrong direction and the run along the embankment is long.
The experience
Amazing!.. Anyone can do it, if they want to. I could be up for next year but there are marathon opportunities all over the world!